2015 Nominees for Saving Country Music’s Album of the Year
2015’s Album of the Year candidates might constitute the most wide open field of contenders since this exercise has been in practice. There’s no clear front runners, anyone could win, and each candidate has pluses and minuses.
Chris Stapleton might be the closest thing to a front runner since he’s already been such a big winner in 2015, but is that a reason to hand it a more unheralded candidate, or should the best record win regardless? And how does Chris Stapleton’s pop country songwriting baggage factor in, if at all?
Speaking of baggage, here months after Hold My Beer Vol. 1 by Randy Rogers and Wade Bowen was released, and there’s still people who haven’t given the album a chance since they don’t believe these guys can sing and perform traditional country. James McMurtry’s Complicated Game has to be in contention for the best-written album in 2015 if nothing else, but is he too much of a known quantity and an older name to create any buzz? Right there with McMurtry in the songwriting realm is Jason Isbell’s Something More Than Free, but is the album any better than Southeastern, and if it’s not, is is fair to make an Album of the Year out of something that isn’t even the artist’s best record?
Meanwhile Whitey Morgan and the Turnpike Troubadours are just as strong as any. Few will even have heard of Ward Thomas, but they may have released the most relevant record of them all. Don Henley’s surprising Cass County is as close to a country music masterpiece as anything in the field, with the rock legend not just making another record, but his definitive country record to stand for the rest of his career. And the one album that truly feels like an artist’s magnum opus—Yelawolf’s Love Story—is hip-hop. Could Saving Country Music really declare a rap record Album of the Year?
PLEASE NOTE: There will be a longer, more involved Essential Albums List posted in the coming weeks, so just because you don’t see one of your favorite records here, doesn’t mean it won’t get recognized. Albums by Jason Boland and the Stragglers, Rachel Brooke and Lonesome Wyatt, Roo Arcus, Brandi Carlile, Ryan Bingham, Jamie Lin Wilson, John Moreland, Mike and the Moonpies, Jason James, Lindi Ortega, Kacey Musgraves, and others were very close to making the list, but a line has to be drawn somewhere in an already crowded field.
Like every year, your opinion counts, and may even count more this year with no clear front runner. So please pipe up in the comments section, though it’s not just an up or down vote. Fans of a particular artist are encouraged to not just say who should win, but make a convincing case of why. This is not an up or down vote. In the end, I, Trigger, will make the final decision.
Whitey Morgan & The 78’s “Sonic Ranch”
Of the underground and independent honky tonkers I’ve had the pleasure of covering over many years, nobody has worked harder, and nobody has put in more miles than than Whitey. There’s been some that have shot to major fame seemingly overnight like Sturgill Simpson, others that seem to ride a boom and bust pattern like Leon Virgil Bowers, but Whitey Morgan is a case study all to his own.
Like rolling Buick sedans off the assembly line in Flint, Michigan one after another, day after day, year after year, not stopping to take breaks or reveling in little victories, but winning fans over one at a time, night after night, tour after tour in America’s derelict honky tonks until the word of mouth grew into a rumble, the crowds went from nearly empty to nut to butt, Whitey Morgan is now like a locomotive at full speed barreling down the tracks. Get in his way, and you’re liable to get trucked.
Named for the legendary studio compound outside of El Paso, TX known for coaxing some of the best recordings out of artists in their career, Sonic Ranch is the missing piece in what was already a well-apportioned arsenal of honky tonk firepower. (read full review)
Randy Rogers & Wade Bowen “Hold My Beer”
Boy howdy did Wade Bowen and Randy Rogers absolutely clobber the ball out of the park with this one. When I first heard they were making a studio version of their laid back, and sometimes poorly-promoted and hastily-booked “Hold My Beer and Watch This” acoustic shows annually embarked on between bigger tours, I thought we’d get a bunch of stripped-down covers, a few acoustic collaborations, and maybe a studio track or two; something more for the serious Red Dirt fan as opposed to a wide swath of the country music population. Instead we get a completely fleshed out album full of original songs that rival or potentially surpass the work either of these Texas country stalwarts have done on their primary projects, or any traditional country album released in a while.
And when I say traditional country, I’m not speaking in hyperbole or close approximations. I’m talking steel guitar and fiddle, I’m talking twang and texture, with really no departure from the traditional approach at any point. But if you come for the music, you stay for the songs, and Hold My Beer Vol. 1 showcases some of the best writing you can find in the achingly bereft country music landscape of today.
Beyond whatever assurances to prospective country music purchasers of this music that I could convey, or whatever superlatives might be levied in support of this effort, what Wade Bowen and Randy Roger do in Hold My Beer Vol. 1 is offer hope for the future of authentic country music, and once again prove that Texas does it better. (read full review)
Chris Stapleton “Traveller”
Well isn’t this cute. So the same guy that’s written songs for Luke Bryan, Lady Antebellum, and wrote that terrible Thomas Rhett single “Crash and Burn” decides he wants to release a traditional country record. I guess we’re all supposed to just hop to attention and try to forget all the trash that he’s carved his name into with songwriting credits and sally forth, huh?
Actually, that’s exactly what we’re supposed to do.
Is there a little voice in the back of my head that says, “Okay, this guy just knows how to write songs so well that he can hoodwink us into believing he’s the real deal, just like he hookwinks the rest when he’s writing pop country material?” There used to be. But the thing about Chris Stapleton is you can’t fake the passion behind that voice. There is something there that is tied so deeply with inspiration, it’s unavoidable as anything but an original and heartfelt expression of authentic emotion. (read full review)
James McMurtry “Complicated Game”
Venturing into ramshackle dive bars and overturning the stones of socioeconomic depravity to unearth the forgotten refugees cast off from the American dream and escaping the enslavement of technology by hammering out livings on the outskirts of society, Texas singer and second generation writer James McMurtry pens odes to the marginalized inhabitants of the margins, meticulously chiseling out curvatures with such intimate understanding and attention to detail that he eventually reveals canonized demi-heroes of everyday forgotten life tied to the land and living like prose in their tacked together existences while the masses speed past on the highway unbeknownst.
Six long years it took, and it may be six more before a fresh new batch arrives. But James McMurtry delivers on the promise of being one of our generation’s preeminent songwriters who can say the things that twist the rest of our tongues, create characters we never knew but feel hauntingly familiar, and fill us with and appreciation of life, both the good and the bad, and understand it is all part of the brilliant tapestry we’re all embedded in and unrolling before us. (read full review)
Don Henley – “Cass County”
Whatever you could want or hope from Don Henley’s Cass County as a country music fan, this album delivers it and in ample quantities. I don’t know that any country fan’s expectations can meet the actual enjoyment this music deals out. And this is a traditional country record. Sure there are a couple of songs you probably wouldn’t consider country at all, and maybe a couple more that would be considered more contemporary country than classic. But overall, it’s totally worthy of claiming the traditional tag. I’m talking Don Williams type stuff: slow songs, steel guitar, great songwriting, and maybe especially, some of the best singing by all the parties involved that I’ve heard in a long time.
It’s just kind of astounding how good Cass County is. Don Henley said he was going to make a country record inspired by his influences and upbringing, and that’s what he did. We’re just not used to this level of quality these days, or this level of uncompromising follow through. A tremendous amount of love and effort went into this record. This isn’t just another album, it’s Don Henley’s country album, and he wanted it to be memorable. (read full review)
Ward Thomas – “From Where We Stand”
Ward Thomas is Maddie & Tae without the baggage or the need for qualifiers or quips like “Oh, but at least it’s better than Bro-Country.” Ward Davis is First Aid Kit but with a more sensible, positive, and wide-appealing sound that doesn’t shed the intelligence or inspiration from the listening experience to get there.
if there was ever an act that American country music needed more, it would be Ward Thomas. And not because they’re traditional country, but because they’re pop country, but pop country that actually says something, assumes an intelligent audience, and attempts to inspire and entertain the public without making you feel stupid.
I’m not sure enough can be said about Ward Thomas. If country music is to be saved, then it has to happen in all sectors of the music, from bluegrass, to traditional country, to Outlaw and honky tonk, and to country pop that will appeal to young women, and to adults that are tired of the pop tart fest, and the poor messages it’s sending to listeners at large. Someone, anyone, get these girls over here and give them the support they deserve. American country music needs Ward Thomas.
Turnpike Troubadours (Self-Titled)
That’s the thing about the Turnpike Troubadours: they’ve exuded a patience and steadiness that has put them steadfastly in touch with the underlying spirit of country music. If they wanted to pivot just slightly and go some big rock route, they could blow up huge. But they didn’t and they don’t . . . and they still blew up huge. This isn’t old country. This is new country, only the roots are still attached, and the branches fan out wide.
You can look at The Turnpike Troubadours as an ass kicking live band, or you can look at them as a band behind a singer songwriter that happens to have some ass kicking songs. Their melodies could rise a little bit more. They could shorten some of their songs, or contemporize the instrumentation. This is surely what they would hear if they sailed their ship for Nashville looking for a larger slice. But they refuse to tinker with what has led them here. You get the sense they would rather quit than let down their long-term fans, or themselves. It’s still the same guys, and mostly the same sound. They remain the Turnpike Troubadours. And their destiny and prospects are better off for it. (read full review)
Yelawolf “Love Story”
So what is Saving Country Music’s interest in this new Love Story record? The serious threat of country rap seems to have waned significantly in the rise of Bro-Country, and country music faces much bigger problems now. But what Yelawolf has done with Love Story is pulled the curtain back and exposed the sheer lack of talent in the ranks of country rappers and other misguided genre benders by putting out an album that sets a creative high watermark, and bucks the narrative of commercial pandering and derivative cliché in the space between country and hip-hop. Love Story is bursting with creative vision, respect for art forms, and most importantly, it is an album that tells a very personal, self-reflective, and at times vulnerable and self-deprecating story. It is Yelawolf’s opus.
Yelawolf’s Love Story could very well be a landmark American album, and could go on to influence countless other artists and albums in the coming years. And in this transfer of influence, there will be the bits of traditional country that are instilled in this record. I cannot assign a grade Love Story because I’m not a hip-hop critic, and therefore am not qualified to rate it on certain merits or against its peers. But will this record still be standing at the end of the year when the entire recording industry gathers to consider who released the most important and influential works? There’s a chance it might be overlooked or misunderstood. But it probably deserves to be. (read full review)
Jason Isbell – “Something More Than Free”
Jason Isbell is the big dog, and you better pay attention when he releases an album, whether your wool is dyed in Americana colors, or you’re a country, folk, or rock fan peering into the Americana world from the outside in.
Anticipation is not always an artist’s best friend. The problem with releasing a career album that is showered with critical acclaim is where to go next. You try the same thing again and the audience may feel it’s a flat effort. You veer to far out-of-bounds and you risk losing your direction and the momentum behind it. Isbell’s last record Southeastern is still racking up plaudits in certain sectors, and here he is trying to get you to pay attention to a new one.
Ultimately, writing a review for an album like this is pointless. If you fancy yourself a music fan, whether specialized to the Americana, country, rock, or folk realms, you probably already have an opinion on Jason Isbell, and you are going to want to be listening to this album and give it attentive consideration. Because it is the work of Jason Isbell, and it’s the one all others will be measured by. (read full review)
Andrew
November 30, 2015 @ 9:14 am
“And how does Chris Stapleton”™s pop country songwriting baggage factor in, if at all?”
I don’t see any reason why that should factor in. A great album is a great album, regardless of the artist’s past work.
Scott
November 30, 2015 @ 9:20 am
It’s Isbell. Don’t overthink it.
SC
November 30, 2015 @ 9:21 am
Have to go with Traveller. Been waiting since “What Are You Listening To” for a full album and it sure as hell didn’t didn’t disappoint. Runner up would have to be Cass County. What an awesome surprise from Don Henley.
Gena R.
November 30, 2015 @ 9:47 am
‘Cass County’ would be my pick — “awesome surprise” is a good way to put it. 😀
Jackass
November 30, 2015 @ 9:22 am
All great choices. I especially enjoyed Stapleton’s album. One of my favorites from this year that did not make the list was Sam Outlaw’s “Angeleno”.
And something I’d like to chime in about Stapleton’s pop song writing? Who gives a damn? Does it take away from the quality of his album? Just because Neil Diamond wrote songs for The Monkees, does that mean his own material should have been taken less serious? Cmon folks, get real. Everyone has a day job..
Afish96745@aol.com
November 30, 2015 @ 9:34 am
Honkytonkbadonkeydonk. Does that take away from Jamey Johnson? I would hope not. (And yes, it pained me to write that to have even a verse of that song in my head)
hoptowntiger94
November 30, 2015 @ 9:57 am
Jamey had to work hard outside the industry to shed that stigma in the early years. As much as I loved “In Color,” I didn’t even listen to the album until I heard “High Cost of Living” on the radio. There are many similarities between Johnson’s and Stapleton’s careers. Although the latter is already more decorated.
Austin Lee
November 30, 2015 @ 12:26 pm
One similarity between Chris and Jamey that I hope don’t hurt him is they both are/were signed to Mercury. Chris is a talented critically acclaimed writer/singer like Jamey and look how it turned out for him.
Trigger
November 30, 2015 @ 9:47 am
For the record, I was playing a little Devil’s Advocate when it comes to Stapleton’s songwriting. I’m still getting hammered by folks telling me he’s the biggest fraud in country music, and I’m sure they’ll find there way to this comments section in due course.
Fuzzy 'Fuzzington" TwoShirts
November 30, 2015 @ 10:08 am
the biggest fraud is Sam Hunt
hiYUN
November 30, 2015 @ 6:02 pm
*Sam Cunt I think you meant
Joe Thompson
November 30, 2015 @ 7:28 pm
yup Sam Cunt……..he should cut his dick off…and make it in to one.
karl
December 1, 2015 @ 4:02 am
I agree about Sam Outlaw, I really like his album, and the EP prior to the album.
J Wallace
November 30, 2015 @ 9:25 am
Hard choice between Traveler and Love Story. I love both albums for different reasons. The rest on the list just didn’t do it as much for me this year. Whitey Morgan & The 78”™s would be a strong #3, but I was hoping for more originals. I wasn’t as into Jason Isbell as other people. Southeastern was a better record to me.
Jared S
November 30, 2015 @ 11:26 am
I thought Southeastern had a few better songs (really hard to top Cover Me Up, Live Oak, Traveling Alone, and Elephant), but I think Something More Than Free is the more cohesive, complete record.
kevin
November 30, 2015 @ 9:25 am
I’d like to have seen Alan Jackson’s Angels and Alcohol nominated. Good list, though (not sold on the Yelawolf).
BwareDWare94
November 30, 2015 @ 9:45 am
Angels and Alcohol is a good album but it definitely had some dud tracks, like the awful “You Never Know.” Album of the Year should never allow setbacks like that.
Donny
December 1, 2015 @ 8:38 am
Lol relax pal, You Never Know is a decent song
Elin
November 30, 2015 @ 10:30 am
Angels & Alcohol definitely deserves a spot on the Essential Albums list. Ditto for The Firewatcher’s Daughter.
Chip
November 30, 2015 @ 9:26 am
Purely off what I listen to the most it’s The Turnpike Troubadours.
Dana M
November 30, 2015 @ 9:26 am
Solid list! Except for Yelawolf. I was also kind of hoping Ashley Monroe, Kacey Musgraves, or Hailey Whitters would make the final list rather than (possibly) being relegated to the essentials list. They’re by far one of the most listened to albums for me this year. Also I loved Jason Isbells album, I felt it was more accessible than Southeastern.
Trigger
November 30, 2015 @ 9:49 am
There could have been more women on the list. I admit that. But I also can’t show women favoritism. Kacey was very close to making the list. If I’d strung it out a few more spots, she would be there. Actually if I had extended this list out two or three spots, I think they all would have been women. I’m sure this will be reflected o nthe Essential Albums list.
hoptowntiger94
November 30, 2015 @ 9:50 am
Ashley Monroe will make my top ten. I like it better with each listen.
Frank the Tank
November 30, 2015 @ 5:57 pm
Agreed!
Kross
November 30, 2015 @ 9:31 am
Turnpike Troubadours for me. The song writing gets stronger on each new record. It hit as high as number 3 on the country charts. their version of Doreen originally done by the Ol’ 97’s proves how heavly influenced they are by not only traditional country, but rock flavored country and alt country. All of those influences are well represented on this record, but also some how become genuine and fresh by the Troubadours.
HaydenLane
November 30, 2015 @ 9:35 am
I have to give it to Randy Rogers and Wade Bowen. There are more creative works, there are more refined works, but I don’t think there’s been a more enjoyable album this year.
I for one love your inclusion of Love Story on the list. It truly is an album for the ages and there hasn’t been a more definitive moment for an artist in any genre this year (in my opinion, anyway). It also shows your willingness to give credit where it’s due, even well outside the confines of country music.
1. Hold My Beer Vol. 1
2. Turnpike Troubadours
3. Love Story
Sonic Ranch (tie)
RD
November 30, 2015 @ 9:38 am
There is no better songwriter than James McMurtry. Any time he puts out an album, it is the album of the year.
CD
November 30, 2015 @ 2:43 pm
“Complicated Game” without question has my vote. Yes “Traveller” is damn good, and the man can sing his ass off. Isbell’s album is once again stellar, though I too favor “Southeastern” simply cause I’m drawn to his more melancholy stuff. But if we’re going to include Songwriting as a big factor, McMurtry’s CG takes the cake folks. Seriously. Their aren’t many artists that can out write Jason Isbell on any given album year. Actually, I’d say there’s only this guy. (Although to be fair he did have a lot longer to work) Phenomenal record that feels like an ole worn out ball cap after a few spins. “The wedding party’s raging yet. How the old and desperate misbehave. The limo smells like cocaine sweat, cheap cologne and aftershave”.
Reverse-Trigger
November 30, 2015 @ 9:40 am
Y’all are gonna have to give me time to release Screwing Country Music’s Album of the Year Nominees. It’s been a good year for pop country. I’d have to say Thomas Rhett’s Tangled Up is the safest bet, with Luke Bryan’s Kill the Lights coming in close.
KC
November 30, 2015 @ 9:41 am
Zane Williams’ latest offering is pretty solid. Not sure when it came out and Aaron Watson’s latest obviously might deserve mention.
Boatwrong
November 30, 2015 @ 9:41 am
Yeah…One of these things are not like the others. I really loved Chris Stapleton’s album and Jason Isbell’s album. I really liked Mcmurtry’s album and the “Hold my Beer” album. I did not enjoy the Yelawolf album as much as I thought I would. Usually I can get into almost anything Trig recommends…but not this one. There were only like two quality songs on “Love Story”. This award goes to Isbell or Stapleton.
Jf
November 30, 2015 @ 9:43 am
That is a heck of a list. For me, it’s Isbell without a doubt. Damn great record. A close second is the John Moreland record, which didn’t make your short list. That is probably my second most played record this year next to the Isbell (which my family has banned from the house because they are sick of hearing it).
Coop
November 30, 2015 @ 10:07 am
Definitely second that John Moreland recommendation. I like McMurtry as much as the next cat, but all the praise that is always levied in his favor can be said of Moreland. The man does not pen a bad song. Should for sure be on the list.
Meaghan
November 30, 2015 @ 9:44 am
I wish to submit a write-in vote for The Black Lillies’ album Hard to Please.
Otherwise I’d go with Traveller, with Isbell and the Turnpike Troubadours close behind.
hoptowntiger94
November 30, 2015 @ 9:47 am
I’ve been sitting on The Black Lillies album. I’ll give it a listen based on your comment.
Meaghan
November 30, 2015 @ 10:17 am
It’s great, but maybe slightly less country than their previous albums. I’m a huge fan of theirs and I’ve loved watching them evolve.
Dave D.
November 30, 2015 @ 9:45 am
Of those you’ve listed, Sonic Ranch would be my choice.
Going off the board, I listened to Kasey Chambers’ Bittersweet more than any other record this year. I can see it being excluded from your list due to the fact that it wasn’t as country as her last couple of CDs (and that it was originally released in Australia in 2014), but it is damned good.
hoptowntiger94
November 30, 2015 @ 9:46 am
I’d (reluctantly) vote Troubadours. All these albums are 4, 4.5 stars; no 5s in the group.
My personal album of the year based on number of plays has to be Grandpa’s Cough Medicine. Thanks, Trig for brining this one to my attention!
Trigger
November 30, 2015 @ 9:55 am
No disrespect mean to the above candidates, but this was a down year for top tier music. All of these records in my opinion would be runners up on other years. Usually there’s two or three definitive projects that really set the bar.
Dane
November 30, 2015 @ 8:26 pm
Trigger,
In a year that gave us Stapleton, Isbell, Rogers/Bowen, Ashley, Jinks &; Whitey- how in the world can you say it’s a down year for top-tier albums? Hell, you turned me onto a few of these! I am sure you have your reasons, but Good Lord…! Can you please post links to your ’13 and 14 lists? Maybe I’ve been missing out on some hidden gems?
If I’m pressed it’d be easy for me to say that those 3 definitives are Isbell, Stapleton and Monroe.
Trigger
November 30, 2015 @ 9:04 pm
You can see all of my previous yearly lists here:
https://www.savingcountrymusic.com/best-of-lists
I’m not saying these albums aren’t great. But when you put them up against the front runners of previous years, in my opinion, they aren’t as great.
Ryan Metcalf
November 30, 2015 @ 9:46 am
John Moreland’s “High On Tulsa Heat” could be added to this list.
Brian
November 30, 2015 @ 9:48 am
I’m still of the opinion that if you got to hear Chris Stapleton sing any of those “pop-country” songs he’s written, he would knock it out of the park, just like he does on his album. Think about how “I let another love crash and burn” would sound with just him and a guitar. What producers do to change up the production to make it “catchy” is what makes it so bad.
LisaBee
November 30, 2015 @ 8:27 pm
I agree with this and have said the same thing. It’s not the song that’s bad, it’s the interpretation. Take “Fire Away” from Traveller – in the wrong hands that song could be dreadful.
Marty mark
December 1, 2015 @ 8:01 pm
Agreed. I have commented about this now repeatedly on this site. You can find his songs, as made “popular” by others, being performed by him on you tube, just him on acoustic guitar, they are great.
BrettS
November 30, 2015 @ 9:48 am
It’s Randy and Wade all day for me. Probably listened to it and ” Traveller ” the most. It just puts me in a great mood. Love ” Sonic Ranch ” as well. I love Isbell too, just have to be in a particular mood for his. But one not mentioned on here that I have been digging hard is Shane Smith and the Saints ” Geronimo “. It’s fine stuff.
Coop
November 30, 2015 @ 10:09 am
Second for Smith & the Saints. Great songwriting, instrumentation and melodies throughout that record.
Matty T
November 30, 2015 @ 9:50 am
Isbell’s album is fantastic, Love Story is one of my favorites to come out this year, Stapleton’s album is insanely good. Though in my opinion, Pageant Material should have been nominated. And out of all the albums listed, I’d say Sonic Ranch is it. That album keeps getting better the more I listen to it.
Frank the Tank
November 30, 2015 @ 9:55 am
Of the listed albums that I’ve listened to, my vote is for “Hold my Beer;” however, my personal choice would be “Holidays & Wedding Rings” by Jamie Lin Wilson.
Julia Grant
November 30, 2015 @ 10:01 am
Andrew Combs’ All These Dreams and Barna Howard’s Quite A Feelin’ definitely ought to be in there…
Norrie
November 30, 2015 @ 10:02 am
From the list and they are fine choices its Isbell for me.
Scott
November 30, 2015 @ 10:04 am
For me, Cody Jinks’ Adobe Sessions was the best Country Album of 2015 hands down.
Trigger
November 30, 2015 @ 10:07 am
Something tells me Cody will be making an appearance on the Song of the Year selections coming up soon.
Spoony
November 30, 2015 @ 10:57 am
I forgot that that was this year! You are correct.
Nick
November 30, 2015 @ 7:59 pm
Agreed
scott
December 1, 2015 @ 6:12 am
Yep, this. Great album.
BrandonWard
November 30, 2015 @ 10:08 am
Of the ones listed, I’d say it’d have to come down to Isbell or Stapleton but there’s one album missing that surprisingly hasn’t gotten any mention at all: Chris Hennessee’s Greetings From Hennessee.
When you wrote about him being signed to Jamey Johnson’s label back in May, I preordered the album and can honestly say it’s one of the best albums I have heard in years. I was extremely surprised to see it fall through the cracks like it has.
While I know it’s too late to be included to the list, I have to wonder if it’s even garnered consideration for the Essential list, as it hasn’t been mentioned at all since May.
If you haven’t yet, please give it a listen – you won’t be disappointed. I’d like to get your thoughts on the album, and would love to see a review done if you have the time.
By the way, on an unrelated noted – thanks for the hard work you do on this site. I discovered it a few years ago and it is more than a breath of fresh air. I couldn’t even begin to list the amount of new artists or albums I’ve been introduced through b/c of your reviews or the comments section.
BrandonWard
November 30, 2015 @ 10:18 am
While I hate to reply to my own comment, I’d also like to give “Honorable Mentions” to John Morleland’s “High on Tulsa Heat” and Willie & Merle’s “Django & Jimmy.
Trigger
November 30, 2015 @ 11:49 am
I enjoyed Chris Hennessee’s record, but it’s very much a blues record, and it was just difficult for me to find the country narrative in it. I’m not saying there isn’t some country there, but I just really don’t know what to say about it. That happens sometimes with albums. It’s not that I’m slighting them, it’s that I don’t really have anything to say. I think that album found some difficulties gaining traction, as did some of Jamey Johnson’s standalone “singles.” I think Big Gassed Records needs to find its way a little bit.
Fuzzy 'Fuzzington" TwoShirts
November 30, 2015 @ 10:11 am
In my mind it would be Sonic Ranch, Something More Than Free, or If I’ve Only One Time Asking. (Got my father transfixed by that last one the other night.)
Dogit
November 30, 2015 @ 5:42 pm
My 2 favorites “Sonic Ranch” and “if only one time asking”
I loved those albums. It just took me back to old school Willie and Paycheck but with better singers.
Dave D.
November 30, 2015 @ 6:23 pm
Thanks for reminding me about If I”™ve Only One Time Askin’. Second favorite CD of the year behind Kasey Chambers’ Bittersweet.
BJones
November 30, 2015 @ 10:11 am
For me, the answer is Whitey Morgan. I’m pretty out of sync with this list. I would have put any of the following on this list before anything else other than Whitey.
Cody Jinks – Adobe Sessions
Robert Earl Keen – Bluegrass Sessions
Charlie Parr – Stumpjumper
Daniel Romano – If I’ve Only One Time Askin’
Sarah Shook and the Disarmers – Sidelong
Danny Schmidt – Owls
Jason Boland – Squelch
Jeffrey Foucault – Salt As Wolves
Malpass Brothers
Nelson / Haggard – Django and Jimmie
Philip Bradatsch – When I’m Cruel
Todd Grebe & Cold Country – Citizen
Jack Williams
November 30, 2015 @ 10:15 am
I typically fill out a top ten albums ballot for the No Depression reader’s poll. I think I’ve got my top ten albums, although there may be some minor changes in the order. The easiest part for me was placing James McMurtry’s Complicated Game in the #1 position. I think it’s a masterpiece and the only new release that I have purchased this year that I would give 5 stars.
Others here in my top ten are Jason Isbell, Whitey Morgan and Chris Stapleton. Both Isbell’s and Stapleton’s albums have been major growers for me. And sorry to see Charlie Parr didn’t make the cut. I have him in my top ten as well.
I got the Rogers/Bowen album a couple of months back. It’s a thoroughly enjoyable country album and I’m glad to see it here.
The release that I was probably most disappointed with this year was the Turnpike Troubadours album. And the disappointment is that I merely like it but don’t love it. I LOVED Goodbye Normal Street and I think Diamonds and Gasoline is just a shade behind it. Some of my problems with the new one is with the production. I think it’s too loud. Also, a little too much generic roots rock and not enough country in the arrangements. And I’m a natural roots rock fan.
Andy
December 5, 2015 @ 3:04 am
Man, I was also disappointed by The Turnpike Troubadours new one, which like you said, I like it but I don’t LOVE it like I did previous albums. It really bums me out because both Goodbye Normal Street and Diamonds and Gasoline are albums I can listen to on repeat for days on end and I was SO excited for this new one and it just isn’t as good.
ElectricOutcast
November 30, 2015 @ 10:29 am
The best thing I can do is pick my favorites of this year and not worry about who had the best record of the year.
Hold My Beer vol. 1 by Wade Bowen and Randy Rogers
Traveler by Chris Stapleton
Something More than Free by Jason Isbell
Cold Beer Conversation by George Strait
and I’m still waiting for Sarah Darling’s new album to be finished by years end.
I would also just like to say: 2015 is the year where I probably bought the most albums out of any years,prior to that I just waited for one or two albums to show up and they would either be from Garth or Strait or Jack Ingram or Wade Bowen, just shows you how picky I am with my music.
Stu
November 30, 2015 @ 10:30 am
Its a toss up between Whitey Morgan and Chris Stapleton (Troubadour close 3rd).
My vote would have to be Whitey though. I just love that damn album, it gets better everytime I hear it, and I’m a sucker for that gritty, rockin, honkytonk music. Not to mention I think its his best work yet, and it shows that him and his band have really mastered their sound. Stapleton’s album is really good too. Well written and amazing voice. Took me a few listens to warm up to it though.
Another thing on Stapleton. He is having an amazing year with the CMA awards, Album sales, etc. So this clearly makes him the front runner. I’m curious to see how much all that notoriety weighs into the final selection, because I feel all that is geared more towards the artist of the year award (which I think he should win, hands down)
Spencer H
November 30, 2015 @ 10:40 am
How could anyone POSSIBLY choose just one best album out of those?! That’s impossible. I suppose I would probably give it to either Whitey Morgan or Chris Stapleton…but that Yelawolf album is pretty fantastic too.
Choosing a best album is too hard. But I bet we could all come to an agreement that Thomas Rhett released the worst album this year.
the pistolero
November 30, 2015 @ 10:46 am
I thought this was a really good year for music, but to each his own. Lots of good albums here. Of the ones on the list I’d probably have to give the nod to Randy & Wade or the Turnpike Troubadours.
And it pains me to say it, but Squelch was, for us, the year’s biggest disappointment, hands down. My wife described it as Jason Boland’s “old man yelling at the clouds” album, and that’s as good a description as any. He had been damned good up to that point, and even a subpar Boland album beats many other artists’ magnum opuses, but there’s not a song on there to my ears that measures up to “Devil Pays in Gold,” “Shot Full of Holes,” “Mary,” “Sons and Daughters of Dixie,” “False Accuser’s Lament,” or “Ludlow.”
Spoony
November 30, 2015 @ 10:55 am
You’re right. I can’t even name a song on the album right now, besides the current single (Holy Relic Sale) despite having listened to it maybe a dozen times. I can’t hear the words, it’s completely forgettable. I’m hoping it will grow on me, because they’ve been in my top two of bands I love for a very long time.
RD
November 30, 2015 @ 11:52 am
Yes. The production is very disappointing. I can’t really tell whether the songs are good or not, because I can’t hear the words. I am partial to an “old man yelling at the clouds,” so that would not make me dislike an album… I’d say that there is not enough complaining about the present state of things, not too much…
the pistolero
November 30, 2015 @ 12:03 pm
I get the acerbic commentary, but I think there’s a right and wrong way to do that. For example, I really liked “Christmas in Huntsville,” but “It’s Alright to be an Asshole” and “Fuck, Fight & Rodeo,” not so much. That talk-singing bit on the latter annoys the living shit out of me.
Jackie Treehorn
November 30, 2015 @ 8:50 pm
Christmas is Huntsville is my favorite on this album but I tend to agree with the assertion that this is far from his best work. It drives me insane that the more to turn this album up (on a damn good sound system too), the less you can hear it.
HaydenLane
November 30, 2015 @ 10:02 pm
Squelch didn’t quite live up to my expectations, but I still find it thoroughly enjoyable. Though the vocals could’ve been clearer/higher, this isn’t the first time I couldn’t quite figure out Jason Boland lyrics.
Sometimes I just have no idea what in the fuck he’s saying. It can be annoying, but the music is too good to overlook because of such a minute issue (much like Sturgill in Metamodern).
Also, “I Guess It’s Alright to Be an Asshole” is possibly my favorite song on the album, right up there with “Christmas in Huntsville.”
Trigger
November 30, 2015 @ 11:52 am
Jason Boland took some big gambles with the new album. To some, it will go on to be their signature release. By “accessible” is probably not the best way to describe it.
James
November 30, 2015 @ 8:12 pm
I thought Squelch was fantastic, and I have no problem understanding Boland on the lyrics. Far too much is being made about the production of that album I feel, and I question when people say they completely can’t understand the lyrics. There are many albums out there with much worse lyrical issues than this one (looking at you, Metamodern) yet it seems to only be a sticking point on this one.
Now, it’s a fair point to say that the social and political topics he chooses are polarizing, but fair fans shouldn’t let that determine the worth of the album. If fans had been paying attention, they would see that Squelch is the ideological culmination of many quasi-social/political songs on his most recent previous albums.
(And I probably replied to the wrong comment here, sorry Trigger)
Trigger
November 30, 2015 @ 9:06 pm
No worries James. I tend to harp on production issues, but I wasn’t really bothered by “Squelch.” I did have some issues ingesting the lyrics, but I attributed it to the complexity of the lyricism. Listening back though, the lyrics could have been a little higher in the mix.
Stefan
December 1, 2015 @ 2:52 am
I totally agree with you on “Squelch”. It is a fantastic album, and I just don´t see the point that a lot of people make about the production. I understand what Jason is singing, and English is not even my native tongue (I am German). I like the lyrics, they are witty, sarcastic and get to the point. And some of the songs keep up with his best songwriting (especially “The First to Know”). I also like the rock´n´roll attitude on some of the songs, brings something of the great live energy on CD.
As for Trigger´s list: I vote for Randy Rogers and Wade Bowen. Just a great album, especially from two artists who dare to do something different and traditional on a side project.
Dallas
November 30, 2015 @ 10:49 am
It’s not up there, but id give it to Aaron Watson. I’ve worn that cd out. It’s close between Aaron and Stapleton imo.
Spoony
November 30, 2015 @ 10:50 am
William Clark Green’s “Ringling Road” isn’t mentioned anywhere here. That’s not alright by me. Turnpike Troubadour’s album does however, so that makes it better. And enough with this Yellow wolf bullshit, good god.
Trigger
November 30, 2015 @ 11:55 am
If you take one album out to add another, someone else is not alright with it. If you name 20 nominees, then the special-ness of the distinction gets diluted. This is not a Top 10 list of the best albums. This is a pool of albums to be considered for which one was the best and most impactful all year. I’m sure William Clark Green will be mentioned in another list before year’s end.
Tom
November 30, 2015 @ 11:04 am
I don’t get the obsession with the Yelawolf album trigger. I get why you highlighted it when it came out, but you keep bringing it up. It doesn’t belong here. It’s a rap album with acoustic elements, not even country elements really spare a few tracks. Just because it shows how bad bro-country is doesn’t mean it has anything to do with a “Country Music Album of the Year Award”. You’ve given it its fair share of attention in its review, but it has no place here.
Trigger
November 30, 2015 @ 12:03 pm
Think of the insurrection that will occur if I name it Album of the Year 🙂
In the end though, I can’t worry about other people’s reaction. I have to give consideration to what I think was the most important album in 2015 for country music. If I was giving the award to the album I felt was the most creative and bold, it would be Yelawolf hands down, running away. I think “Love Story” challenges listeners of many genres at a time when it is the most necessary. It is a hip-hop record, but it is also country enough to be considered under the country umbrella, and was targeted to the country audience. What holds it back is it never got any traction in the country space, which it probably deserved. And if it did, Sam Hunt, Colt Ford, Brantley Gilbert and the lot would have already been relegated as a footnote. There’s no justice in music, but we already knew that.
Truthiness
November 30, 2015 @ 1:53 pm
Yelawolf on Nashville at 4:52:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gf-tgjjCYsY
Trigger
November 30, 2015 @ 2:01 pm
None of these albums are receiving mainstream radio play down here, except for Chris Stapleton, and that’s only now, and reluctantly since he virtually swept the CMA Awards.
Trigger
November 30, 2015 @ 2:19 pm
What’s funny is that if you listen to the album, you don’t need to hear him say any of that stuff. It’s all right there in the music. Those quotes just confirm it.
Len
November 30, 2015 @ 12:29 pm
Rap and country don’t belong together, just sounds so wrong!
Kevin Davis
November 30, 2015 @ 11:05 am
Whitey Morgan is my vote. I saw him in concert, and I’ve never been more impressed by a country act. I also second a comment above — Sam Outlaw’s debut album would be in my top five for sure.
Don’t worry about the Stapleton haters. They are few and meaningless.
Fred
November 30, 2015 @ 11:16 am
Was Ray Wylie Hubbard’s “The Ruffian’s Misfortune” excluded because it wasn’t country enough or it wasn’t good enough? That and “Turnpike Troubadours” would have to battle each other for the top spot for me.
Trigger
November 30, 2015 @ 12:05 pm
Ray Wylie Hubbard would be the first to tell you he’s not country, but “The Ruffian’s Misfortune” is a solid effort, and I’m sure will be recognized before the year’s up. Little birdies telling me he might show up as a nominee for Song of the Year, but we’ll have to see. 😉
Brandon
November 30, 2015 @ 11:18 am
I don’t think Traveller belongs any higher than a mention, a couple good/great songs but the others not so much. His voice just doesn’t compete with some of the others.
Courtney Patton’s new album should definitely be on there ,it is a classic. One of the best songwriters around and a great voice.
Also, I hope Aaron Watson is seriously considered for some of the best songs of 2015. His album may not be the best , but atleast half of the songs are great. The Underdog, Family Tree, Bluebonnets could easily be some of the best songs of the year.
Edit: When I read the article , I was shocked not to see Daylight&Dark from Jason Eady. Then I realized it was 2014 instead , what a classic that album is.
the pistolero
November 30, 2015 @ 5:00 pm
Bluebonnets
If we’re gonna have a Song of the Year, there really is no other choice than this one here, IMO.
Zack
November 30, 2015 @ 11:20 am
Solid list. I can’t find anything to really nitpick here. I will say that I don’t get the love for “Hold My Beer” however. I thought it was a great album don’t get me wrong. Solid 8/10. However, I feel that an Album Of The Year is something you have to feel and I just didn’t feel anything with that particular album. It’s an unpopular opinion, I already realize it.
Anyway, here’s my AOTY Candidates (without spoiling who actually wins it for me)
Gretchen Peters- “Blackbirds”
Don Henley- “Cass County”
Whitey Morgan- “Sonic Ranch”
The Black Lillies- “Hard To Please”
William Clark Green- “Ringling Road”
James McMurtry is so so so close, but the monotone production holds back an otherwise perfect album. Jason Isbell’s was close, but again I felt it was extremely good rather than a masterpiece. “Traveller” is also really close, I just take issue with “Might As Well Get Stoned”. “From Where We Stand” is a solid 9/10 for me and the Turnpikes are at a 9/10 for me as well.
Richard Burke
November 30, 2015 @ 11:35 am
This is an excellent list. And you are right, it is a crowded field. Each year I do a list of top 50 songs (all genres) and it is definitely a tough year to find clear front runners to top the list. In doing a list that looks at songs and not albums, it is more centered around songs as individual selections and not so much albums as a whole, but I think if an artist has several songs on contention for top 50 of the year it probably means they wrote a pretty decent album. All of these artists were considered in my top 50. Several of them had more than 1 song make the top 50. Jason Isbell had 5. Is Something More Than Free better than Southeastern? Probably not. Is it worse? Probably not. I don’t think there are any individual songs as good as Elephant but did Southeastern have 5 as good as Children of Children, Something More Than Free, If It Takes A Lifetime, 24 Frames, and Speed Trap Town? He’s at the top of his career and his currently a front runner for this generation’s best songwriter. I would not be disappointed to see him top your list.
the pistolero
November 30, 2015 @ 4:47 pm
I don”™t think there are any individual songs as good as Elephant but did Southeastern have 5 as good as Children of Children, Something More Than Free, If It Takes A Lifetime, 24 Frames, and Speed Trap Town?
Nope. Southeastern took a while to grow on me (mostly because of Isbell’s voice), but I took to Something More Than Free right away, because of all the above-mentioned songs, along with “Palmetto Rose” and “To A Band That I Loved.” If Jason Boland had recorded Something More Than Free, it would’ve been the album of the fuckin’ century.
Jack Williams
November 30, 2015 @ 6:05 pm
I would say yes. I’ll add Flagship to your list and list these six from Southeastern: Elephant, Cover Me Up, Travelling Alone, Live Oak, New South Wales and Relatively Easy. At minimum, a fair fight.
I think Southeastern is the better album. Similarly, I think Born To Run is better than Darkness On The Edge Of Town. But I still love Darkness On The Edge Of Town.
Scott
November 30, 2015 @ 8:15 pm
I would agree, as a complete body of work Southeastern is better. But, Children of Children might be the best song off either album. And I LOVE Live Oak, Different Days and Relatively Easy.
Jack Williams
December 1, 2015 @ 9:13 am
This verse from Relatively Easy (remembering a friend who committed suicide), especially the last line, never fails to move me.
Not for me to understand
Remember him when he was still a proud man
A vandal’s smile, a baseball in his right hand
Nothing but the blue sky in his eyes
Richard Burke
December 3, 2015 @ 10:06 am
It was never my intention to argue that one album was a better album than the other. I mean it is clear that Jason Isbell is extremely good at his craft. I would like to offer a reason why to me those 5 songs stand out to me over the top 5 on Southeastern. I’ve had a government job that kept me pissing clear. I’ve been too tired to go to church. I’ve even had a drink by an indian mound. To me Southeastern was filled with great songs about specific narratives that took me into another world. It was like reading a great work of fiction. The songs on Something More Than Free have the same affect (perhaps not quite as good narratively), but they are more identifiable to every day life. Each of us listens to music from our own focal point and individually one song may speak more to one person than another. I think Jason Isbell has spoken to a very broad audience with his latest release, and for that reason, it should be in serious consideration for anyone’s album of the year list.
Jack Williams
December 5, 2015 @ 5:48 pm
That’s fair enough, Richard. It’s just a fun conversation.
I filled out my reader’s poll ballot over at No Depression. I had Something More Than Free at #2 behind McMurtry’s Complicated Game.
Brendan
November 30, 2015 @ 11:49 am
I was hoping to see the Honeycutters album on here. My favorite this year.
Hjorthen
November 30, 2015 @ 11:56 am
James McMurtry and his Complicated Game is the best one by far. Jason Isbell a step and a half behind. The rest will have to fight for scraps here I’m afraid.
Ryan Williams
November 30, 2015 @ 12:04 pm
Glad to see Jason James’ debut mentioned… I’ve been playing that album non stop since it came out. In my opinion that record deserves to be at the top of the list, especially being from a fresh newcomer. It’s also pure country, unlike most other albums mentioned.
RD
November 30, 2015 @ 12:11 pm
I think a lot of people are willing the new Turnpike Troubadours album into being good. Its a case of wanting and hoping, not assessing the actual material. Its a C+, possibly a B-, at best. For having to wait years between releases, there is little new material. A couple old songs, a cover, a handful of new songs, and way too many love songs Corb Lund’s new album is vastly better than Turnpike Troubadours.
Spoony
November 30, 2015 @ 12:32 pm
You seem to be projecting. I think the album is great, a solid five stars. Corb Lund, Isbell, and Jason Boland are some of my very favorite artists and I have about everything they’ve ever done. They all released albums this year, and I don’t have much affinity for any of them. I’ve also been a big fan of Turnpike Troubadours of course, but of the four they have the one I like the best–by far.
Charlie
November 30, 2015 @ 12:12 pm
Since it is not a pick of the ‘Best’ album or ‘Greatest’ album of the year, but rather the ‘Saving Country Music’ album of the year, the clear pick is Traveller (why is it spelled Britishy?).
Nothing else had nearly as much of a positive impact. It’s not even close.
shuga
November 30, 2015 @ 12:15 pm
McMurtry
Isbell
Bottle Rockets
alaine dibenedetto benard
November 30, 2015 @ 12:26 pm
james mcmurtry [complicated game]–
not only saving country music, but putting it back in its proper place–top of music-lovers’ chart.
right on/write on.
M. Rasmussen
November 30, 2015 @ 12:40 pm
Too bad you didn’t get around to review Tami Neilson’s album. Would have been a strong contender 🙂
Trigger
November 30, 2015 @ 12:49 pm
Tami Neilson’s new album will have to be a strong contender for 2016. Officially, it is not out in the United States, and out of respect for the way Tami and her management want to play it, I will wait to feature the album until it is release Stateside. I know it’s available on BandCamp and such, but there’s reasons for release dates, and sticking to them can lend to the success of an album.
M. Rasmussen
November 30, 2015 @ 12:52 pm
Ah, well that makes sense.
Nadia Lockheart
November 30, 2015 @ 12:49 pm
Personally, I would add Gretchen Peters’ “Blackbirds” to the consideration. But I acknowledge that’s just me.
Between those listed as finalists, it would have to be Whitey Morgan narrowly edging out McMurtry and Bowen/Rogers as second and third respectively. I think Morgan’s effort just stands out above the rest in its distinctive flavor in its production and Morgan’s oak-barreled vocals that are so remarkably lived in and exhibiting remarkable range in expressiveness.
Still, can’t go wrong with any of these. I may not be infatuated with “Traveller” (I like the album but don’t madly love it) for instance, but I wholeheartedly respect that it has to be viewed as a top contender because of his breakout commercial success and potential sea change contributions for traditional country at a larger scale.
Zack
November 30, 2015 @ 1:33 pm
Out of curiosity, where would “Blackbirds” come in on your list?
Nadia Lockheart
November 30, 2015 @ 2:43 pm
Probably in a rough tie for second, with James McMurtry.
I’d still give the edge to Whitey Morgan, but Peters wouldn’t be far off.
Gena R.
November 30, 2015 @ 2:49 pm
‘Blackbirds’ is one of my absolute favorites of the year. 🙂
johnson
November 30, 2015 @ 12:56 pm
There’s some great music here on your list Trigger but it makes me a little sad. I’m left wondering where’s the next Randy Travis, George Strait, Dwight Yoakam, or Alan Jackson. The guys that will carry on traditional country the way they carried it on from Merle Haggard, George Jones, or Buck Owens. I love a lot of Americana style country but have we completely lost the authentic country singers thats roots can be traced back through a lineage of real deal singers to Hank, Lefty, and others. I have respect for all of these artists on your list but my heart yearns for what is missing completely in Country Music today… a real died in the wool country singer that plays real died in the wool country music that combines artistic merit with commercial radio success. If Alan and LeAnn Womack could do it in the 90’s, why can’t someone do it today? Not looking for an argument here with anyone, just saying I miss what I love so much.
Zack
November 30, 2015 @ 1:36 pm
To be fair, “Hold My Beer”, “Cass County”, and “Sonic Ranch” are pretty stone cold traditional. Turnpikes are a little more modern sounding, but still.
Trigger
November 30, 2015 @ 1:59 pm
As Zack said, I do think there’s some authentic country albums on this list. Having said that, I think it was a somewhat down year for emerging authentic country artists when it comes to albums. Next year though, hypothetically we’ll get debuts from Williams Michael Morgan, Mo Pitney, and a few others that are showing great promise in that realm. I think many of country music’s labels are betting things are going to swing back to the traditional side in 2016.
Zack
November 30, 2015 @ 2:48 pm
Is this a claim out of hope? Or is there some sort of “confirmation” (for lack of a better word) that things are going to swing back to the traditional side? I’m really hoping it’s the latter. I mean don’t get me wrong I’d love to see debuts from Morgan and Pitney, but neither of their singles have exactly screamed “smash” so far.
Trigger
November 30, 2015 @ 3:10 pm
I definitely think the industry is at least hedging their bets that we could be in for a traditional backlash. I was thinking (and saying) that before Chris Stapleton’s big wins.
Kellie Salome
November 30, 2015 @ 1:00 pm
James McMurtry’s Complicated Game is the winner for me. Seemless blending of wit and grief, determination and doubt, lost time and restless yearning, his characters span the American landscape and experience. Evocative of our collective hope and rage, delivered in deadpan honesty.
CD
November 30, 2015 @ 3:02 pm
No doubt about!
Mike Beagle
November 30, 2015 @ 1:40 pm
I go with Whitey first & Hold my beer second.
Bigfoot is Real (AKA Progressive Fascist Rat)
November 30, 2015 @ 1:49 pm
The Deslondes was my favorite under the radar gem of the past year. Might there be room for that on the essential list?
Trigger
November 30, 2015 @ 1:55 pm
For sure. I think the best years from those guys are to come. They’re just getting warmed up.
Gage
November 30, 2015 @ 1:51 pm
I live in Canada and our radio is even worse than it is in the states. Every single one of these albums I would have never heard of if not for this website so thanks trig. My personal favourites are sonic ranch and the self titled turnpike troubadours album. Traveller being a close third.
CountryKnight
November 30, 2015 @ 2:19 pm
Angels and Alcohol
/end thread
Donny
December 1, 2015 @ 8:36 am
Yup, Angels and Alcohol is my album of the year. Alan is pretty untouchable
BwareDWare94
November 30, 2015 @ 2:19 pm
I would really like to see Randy Rogers and Wade Bowen walk away with this. While Traveller is great in a sense, it’s too long and some of the tracks could have been discarded pretty easily (I’m looking at you, “Might as Well Get Stoned” and “Outlaw State of Mind”).
Ryan
November 30, 2015 @ 2:22 pm
No love for the White Buffalo’s “Love and the Death of Damnation”?
Christian
November 30, 2015 @ 2:28 pm
thanks again, as I always find some gems on your list and the comments, second previous comments on John Moreland and the Honeycutters, personal faves not seen yet are Lucero (always coming back to this one), Chuck Hawthorne – Silver Line, Barna Howard – Quite A Feeling and the self titled Marlon Williams.
Dom
November 30, 2015 @ 2:59 pm
Unfortunately my album of the year is Pageant Material but this is Trigger’s list. Being from the U.K I have to support Ward Thomas. These girls are doing great things for country music in the U.K and are part of the reason why it is gaining in popularity. As you said in your review, they are making music that means something and pioneering pop-country with a brain. ‘The Good and the Right’ is irresistible and I think their cover of ‘Caledonia’ is brilliant. However, Traveller is a contender and worthy winner.
Johnny
November 30, 2015 @ 3:03 pm
I would have to choose Isbell for album of the year, although I immensely enjoyed the albums by TT, Rodgers/Bowen, and Stapleton.
On a side note, Blues/Swamp Rock band JJ Grey & MOFRO’s project Ol’ Glory is probably my favorite non-country album of 2015.
Eric
November 30, 2015 @ 4:01 pm
In my opinion, if “Traveller” were cut down to just the first 9 songs, then it would have been a country masterpiece and would have received my enthusiastic vote for Album of the Year from this list.
The last 5 songs, however, contain too much hard rock filler that makes this an album that I really like but don’t love enough to actually buy in its entirety. Chris Stapleton’s voice beautifully suits hard country, but it does not mesh well with rock.
I also really like, but fall just short of loving, the “Hold My Beer” album. The Isbell album seems to feature a more boring musical style than “Southeastern”. I am not familiar enough with the others on the list to provide an informed opinion.
I wish the Jamie Lin Wilson album were here. It features as perfect a combination of deep lyrics and gorgeous vocals as I have heard this year. I certainly would have voted for it.
Libby
November 30, 2015 @ 4:02 pm
Jason Isbell ”“ “Something More Than Free”
He had enough buzz with “Southeastern” that I listened to it several times and overall it didn’t click with me. “Something More Than Free” is an album I can listen to repeatedly and never skip a song.
Norrie
November 30, 2015 @ 4:08 pm
Thanks for the reviews over the year Trigger.Thanks to this site I’ve bought albums that might not have caught my attention – Turnpike Troubadours,Randy Rogers & Wade Bowen,Mike & the Moonpies- all very good albums that will probably be in my top 10 of what I consider to have been a good year.
Tom
November 30, 2015 @ 4:11 pm
Just curious Trigger, do you plan on talking about George Strait’s album in the Essential Album list? Obviously you didn’t do a review on it, but it’d be cool to hear your thoughts on it, especially compared to Alan Jackson’s album, and even Clint Blacks and Garth’s from last year.
And my vote is for Traveller. I agree there aren’t any clear winners (like 2013 and 2014), but the widespread and positive impact it had for the genre sets it over the edge for me.
Trigger
November 30, 2015 @ 6:01 pm
Over the next few weeks, it’s my plan to catch up with as many of the albums that I either missed or have not reviewed henceforth. This year it’s been especially hard since it seems like so many more artists waited until the end of the year to release their albums than ever before, meaning there hasn’t really been the normal dead time to catch up. “Cold Beer Conversation” is definitely on that list.
vp
November 30, 2015 @ 4:22 pm
Great list! It’s been a good year for music and I think all of these albums are solid. I loved Hold My Beer and Traveller, and I thought Isbell crafted another amazing piece of work, but I have to go with McMurtry and Complicated Games. I’m basing this on the fact that no other album had a song that made me laugh and cry in the span of a few minutes. “Copper Canteen” is a classic and only the latest in McMurtry’s long string of small masterpieces. If McMurtry makes us wait forever for a new album, at least he makes it worth the wait.
Taylor
November 30, 2015 @ 4:27 pm
I really like Chris Stapleton’s album but out of the candidates I would place it 2nd behind Randy Rogers and Wade Bowen’s Hold My Beer album. I also enjoyed Corb Lund’s latest, and Boland never disappoints but I will say his album is different than past ones but still enjoy it.
B
November 30, 2015 @ 4:43 pm
Solid list but would add cody jinks album adobe sessions…fantastic album
Susan Cummings
November 30, 2015 @ 4:55 pm
“Complicated Game” – brutal, honest, slyly humorous. McMurtry’s got bite, but no bile. One of the best lyricists of our generation.
Nate
November 30, 2015 @ 4:56 pm
“Chris Stapleton might be the closest thing to a front runner since he”™s already been such a big winner in 2015, but is that a reason to hand it a more unheralded candidate, or should the best record win regardless? And how does Chris Stapleton”™s pop country songwriting baggage factor in, if at all?
Best record should win regardless. And songwriting not on the record should not factor at all. It’s album of the year, not album plus all the other songs they wrote this year. Bottom line, Stapleton’s record is receiving critical acclaim because it deserves it. Seeing as it took over the country chart upon mainstream impact demonstrates why it might be the most important album on this list, ushering in a new era of country music that focuses on the song instead of the money.
“Speaking of baggage, here months after Hold My Beer Vol. 1 by Randy Rogers and Wade Bowen was released, and there”™s still people who haven”™t given the album a chance since they don”™t believe these guys can sing and perform traditional country.”
Just because people won’t give an album a shot doesn’t mean it’s not the best album of the year. Preconceived notions by other people don’t make the album better or worse. Although if you thought these guys weren’t great to begin with but loved the record, you might have an inflated view of it due to low expectations in the first place.
“Right there with McMurtry in the songwriting realm is Jason Isbell”™s Something More Than Free, but is the album any better than Southeastern, and if it”™s not, is is fair to make an Album of the Year out of something that isn”™t even the artist”™s best record?”
Absolutely. Southeastern wasn’t released this year so it can’t be considered, but if you put Something More than Free up against the other albums on this list and find it’s better than all of those, that just means Isbell has two albums better than everyone’s best 2015 effort.
“And the one album that truly feels like an artist”™s magnum opus””Yelawolf”™s Love Story””is hip-hop. Could Saving Country Music really declare a rap record Album of the Year?”
I don’t see why not. Is there criteria that says Album of the Year has to be country? You could argue that Stapleton or Isbell are more rock or blues, and you already admitted that Ward Thomas are country pop. Love Story is hands down the best album front to back that you have listed, and if you’re looking to give the award to an album that’s truly “country” you can’t give it to anyone but Don Henley. It would definitely be a shocker and an upset if you picked Love Story, and I wouldn’t blame you or judge you or even criticize you for playing it safe and sticking with Isbell or Stapleton.
brettp
November 30, 2015 @ 4:57 pm
A lot of great releases this year for sure, however, for me, its always been down to two for me. That is Stapleton and Whitey, and to this day, im still torn. Stapleton comes in and does what he was expected to do and more, while Whitey lays it all out there and puts out the record of his career! Rounding out my top 5 gotta go with Dwights Secondhand Heart (which was my top spot for several months), even after seeing this album performed live which blew me away, it was hard to move. It had such attitude a rawness, i loved the energy, clearly a reinvigorated veteran. 4th spot goes to Randy and Wade and i agree with most, if you havent gave this album a chance, DO IT! I dont care if you are not familiar with randy rogers band or wade bowen, you wont find a more traditional effort out there. 5th was a tough one cuz it could go to anybody but im gonna go with alan jacksons angels and alcohol. I felt the writing was stronger than what most believe and the instrumentation right on par with a jackson album. It was just great to hear alan again with fresh material, just what country music ordered.
Honorables: Ward Davis, Eric Church, Kacey, George Strait, Willie and Merle.
Steven McSorley
November 30, 2015 @ 5:07 pm
It’s got to be Complicated Game…by a mile.
LG
November 30, 2015 @ 5:13 pm
Troubadours and Musgraves for me, with honorable mentions going to Isbell, Ortega, and Rhett Miller.
Jake
November 30, 2015 @ 5:26 pm
Easy…Whitey hands down. Not even close in my book. If you can’t listen to the first track of Sonic Ranch, (his version of “Me and the Whiskey”) and not hit back to listen to it again…you ain’t right.
The amount of time that was spent on mixing and mastering this Album is evident (Mr. Hewitt you did a damn fine job). The grit beneath the polish of the mix is perfect in my opinion, the songs fit together well as a whole, and the overall work/effort that went into this project from the beginning to the end, stands out…you can feel it in my opinion.
Mike R
November 30, 2015 @ 6:35 pm
One album I don’t recall seeing any love for here all year was Asleep at the Wheel’s “Still the King.” A tribute album, granted, but I think it’s one of their best, with some really great guests.
the pistolero
December 1, 2015 @ 4:18 am
That was a really fun album. We liked it a lot.
Chance
November 30, 2015 @ 6:49 pm
Great music beats Singer Song Writers. Whitey Morgan Sonic Ranch!
Joe Thompson
November 30, 2015 @ 7:32 pm
Hold my Beer Vol 1
Jake W
November 30, 2015 @ 7:43 pm
Something more than free is a pretty clear choice for me, but I haven’t got to hear entire albums of each contender. I guess Meta-modern sounds was released to early, not that I think it is as good as Jason.
Really I couldn’t choose if I had to consider any other album besides Something more than free. I love the writing g and I don’t think anyone can touch him on that. Turnpike troubadours are pretty cool, each song is epic and the fiddle and blue grass progression is my shit. But still not on isbell level. But who am I to judge, I enjoyed a lot of this music and I am bias to isbell since I have always been a truckers fan.. Whatever the pick is they’ll deserve it (except yellerwolf, and stapletron screw their music in the neck)…..
Big Z
November 30, 2015 @ 7:52 pm
First off, great list. No reason to shoot holes in it.
To me, it is a matter of personal preference as there is wide range of styles of music listed here.
But overall, my pick is Isbell. It is simply a masterpiece, regardless of genre.
Stapleton is a very close second. It may be the most influential “country” album of the year.
Blackwater
November 30, 2015 @ 8:29 pm
SCM’s Album of the Year… not Country Album of the Year, hence Yelawolf and Isbell on the list. I disagree with the c-ck slobbering of both Isbell and Yelawolf, but if the criteria is best artistic output in their genre – then why not? Just cause I disagree with it, doesn’t mean its not a great album. As a country fan and a country blog, wouldn’t make a darn lick of sense though. Your justifications of Yelawolf have been wet paper bag weak and its a blow to the integrity of the blog to even pretend it has validity. Just clarify its not the COUNTRY album of the year.
Trigger
November 30, 2015 @ 9:02 pm
“Your justifications of Yelawolf have been wet paper bag weak and its a blow to the integrity of the blog to even pretend it has validity.”
Ouch.
Well don’t think for a second I don’t know that including Yelawolf here is gravely unpopular with many folks. But I’m not running a popularity contest. It’s my job to be as honest as I can be. And not including Yelawolf in a discussion of what what I believe is the best album this year would be tantamount to lying for me, so I had no choice. I understand though it’s a very curious pick for a country blog. But my hand was forced by the quality of Yealwolf’s effort. In my opinion, of course.
Jeremy
November 30, 2015 @ 8:34 pm
I’ll go on to second most of everyone’s opinion that this year was pretty muddled down. I have most of the same reservations about the albums you all did, the ones I listened to anyways. It was a weird year for me though because if I had to list my favorite artists since I jumped ship from mainstream country it would be Isbell, Stapleton/Steeldrivers, Randy Rogers Band, and Turnpike Troubadours. So lots of good music came out for me this year, but some of which was underwhelming.
Isbell’s Something More Than Free, I can’t help but compare to Southeastern…and it doesn’t compare in my opinion. This isn’t a knock, I guess I just over inflated my hopes for the album.
Sonic Ranch just had too many covers for me to be ranked as high as it was for the year.
The Troubadours album, while probably my favorite this year, had two songs that are redone and a cover song. I can see how some would knock it, but the Bird Hunter’s could be song of the year…
Complicated Game is something I just bought and am still delving into, but I could see it being the best written album this year from what I’ve heard so far.
Hold My Beer was the biggest surprises for me. I’ve always enjoyed RRB, but had been turned off by the last couple albums. Randy and Wade really show their love for traditional country on this one. It’s just a fun county album.
So I guess my favorite has to be Traveller. Sorry I was so long winded to get to that. For me, the solo Stapleton album was a long time coming. I’ve waited for it since he left The Steeldrivers. In my opinion it didn’t disappoint. The one song I wish got talked about more for this album is Daddy Doesn’t Pray Anymore.
the pistolero
December 1, 2015 @ 4:28 am
I’d have to disagree with the reasoning re: the Turnpike Troubadours album. It’s not often that a re-recording of a song is better than the original, and they pulled it off with both “Bossier City” and “Easton and Main.” The last re-recording I heard that was better than the original was “Georgia On A Fast Train” with Billy Joe and Eddy Shaver, and that was 22 years ago…
Jeremy
December 1, 2015 @ 10:21 am
I don’t think I said that the album was bad or anything, actually I loved the album. I just think that for something to be the best of the year it should be original content. That’s just me, I respect your opinion if you think I am wrong though. I actually prefer the original Easton and Main to the newer one, Bossier City I will agree is better though. I just think, especially after the length of time between albums, that the effort wouldn’t have had the two re-recordings.
the pistolero
December 1, 2015 @ 10:36 am
Sorry ’bout that. I didn’t mean to imply you said it was bad. 😀 I see where you’re coming from in relation to the length of time between GNS and the new album, but I am still glad they re-recorded those songs. Maybe it would have been better perception-wise if they’d done that a little further down the road, but it is what it is.
Jackie Treehorn
November 30, 2015 @ 8:59 pm
Hold my beer sounds like a country record should. Period. Every song drips and oozes steel and fiddle and the singing and lyrics are great but my vote goes to Whitey F’n Morgan. I can’t stop listening to “Drunken nights in the city”. I’ve seen him at least 5 times live and he never disappoints.
Robert S
November 30, 2015 @ 9:03 pm
Obviously, my pick is Stapleton’s autobiography. I will add a few positive mentions for some of the others, though. My fellow Alabamians Isbell and Yelawolf – very good at what they do, but not so convinced as “country” standard-bearer. My part-time home of San Marcos,TX – good to see Randy Rogers get mention, and I missed Whitey by one day at Kent Black BBQ. Others- Moreland has an engineering/technical type of mind, and I am an engineer myself. Kacey Musgraves draws my attention, also, whether it’s her music or her mother’s artwork or even tweeting an article about Yamnaya DNA- some depth that shows through that rhinestone exterior.
Austin
November 30, 2015 @ 9:39 pm
As far a best country album goes, I’d have to go with Hold My Beer Vol. 1, followed by Traveller. I still think Bingham’s Album was better than the Turnpike Troubadour Album (no disrespect to them). I’ll probably get shot for this but… I have a hard time justifying Jason Isbell’s album as country. It definitely has some country undertones and is much more country than anything on the radio, but, for me, it was much more Americana than anything else. All that to say, it was a great album none the less.
Lone Wolf
November 30, 2015 @ 10:16 pm
Trigger…..THANK YOU for putting this list together!!!! I’m always looking for what’s not popular but what’s awesome. Thank you again!!!!!
Matthew@bigtexbingo.com
November 30, 2015 @ 11:45 pm
Genius is always bound to be misunderstood.
Hanspeter
December 1, 2015 @ 1:57 am
Good choice. My favorites from this nominee’s list are
1. James McMurtry
2. Chris Stapleton
3. Randy Rogers & Wade Bowen
But MY ALBUM OF THE YEAR is
”¢ Kevin Gordon ”“ Long Gone Time
Other favorites of the year are:
– Jeremy Pinnell ”“ OH/KY
– 6 String Drag ”“ Roots Rock ‘n’ Roll
– JD Mc Pherson ”“ Let The Good Times Roll
– Joe Ely ”“ Panhandle Rambler
– Brennen Leigh Sings Lefty Frizzell
karl
December 1, 2015 @ 4:16 am
Great list, Trigger. I will mention Dwight’s new one, really good.
But, yeah, Stapleton, McMurtrey, Whitey are all great. Cass Country is probably my favorite.
And I will third a vote for Sam Outlaw. And one more just because no one else has mentioned him, Ben Rogers album The Bloodred Yonder has me hooked.
Carol Allen
December 1, 2015 @ 4:38 am
I have listened over and over to all of James McMurtry’s albums and I never tire of them. There is something in every song that will touch everyones life in one way or another. He is by far my choice for number 1 album of the year. He writes as real as it gets. Thank you James!!!!
JohnS
December 1, 2015 @ 4:46 am
Surprised Luke Bryan didn’t make the list.
Reverse-Trigger
December 1, 2015 @ 5:40 am
He came close on our list, however the diverse masterpiece that Thomas Rhett made edges it out. Also, we like Old Dominion’s better as well based strictly off the cover. What creativity!
Applejack
December 1, 2015 @ 5:19 am
Man, these year-end lists are fun, and like many other readers, I will surely use this list (and others to follow) as a launching pad for further musical exploration. For example, I’ve never listened to James McMurtry in my life, despite hearing his name mentioned quite a bit around here. Anyway, it is satisfying to reflect on all the good music that came out this year, and I especially reading enjoy all the comments and different takes on threads like this.
I think it’s fairly obvious that Chris Stapleton’s album made (and will probably continue to make) the biggest impact this year, but since there are separate awards for both artist and album of the year, I assume “impact” and other intangibles will factor moreso into the former category. Regardless, Stapleton’s album is a damn fine record. I agree with those who say Traveller is slightly too long, and could have been even stronger with a couple fewer tracks, but I actually think the harder-hitting outlaw country jams are the strongest material on the record. The slower ballads like “Daddy Doesn’t Pray Anymore” are the ones I’m more inclined to skip, frankly. But again, I really enjoy Traveller, and it would be a great choice for album of the year.
On a purely sonic level, as refreshingly real and gritty as Stapleton’s record is, Whitey Morgan’s music might be the most viscerally thrilling. The question is whether the number of covers on Morgan’s album hurt him or not. In the grand scheme of things, country albums that are made up primarily of cover songs are not all that unusual. Having said that, Whitey isn’t as good of a pure vocalist as George Jones or other classic artists who recorded records that way, but the music might be powerful enough to make up for it. And speaking of covers, Whitey also edges out Stapleton and others for the most badass album cover this year. (Man, mainstream country album covers are terrible.)
Some other scattered thoughts:
I still need to listen to Ashley Monroe’s full album, but I absolutely loved the last couple tracks I heard, especially “Bombshell.” There is something about her voice that really does the trick for me.
I’m intrigued by Ward Thomas making this list, and the entire idea of a British pop-country act, but I haven’t heard any of their stuff yet.
Applejack
December 1, 2015 @ 5:26 am
This quote really stood out to me:
“If country music is to be saved, then it has to happen in all sectors of the music, from bluegrass, to traditional country, to Outlaw and honky tonk, and to country pop that will appeal to young women, and to adults that are tired of the pop tart fest, and the poor messages it”™s sending to listeners at large.”
Every style of country music needs to be “saved.” I think this is wise, and it is this nuanced attitude that sets this website apart from other superficially similar pop-country bashing blogs, such as “We Hate Pop Country,” etc.
RD
December 1, 2015 @ 6:22 am
I agree with all of the sentiment, except for appealing to young women. The result of trying to appeal to young women is “Keeping up with the Kardashians.”
Eric
December 1, 2015 @ 6:35 pm
Appealing to young men is what led to bro-country.
RD
December 2, 2015 @ 7:22 am
That is only partially true. There are an awful lot of young women who fed that pig, too. Aldean, Bryan, etc. appeal to lots of young morons with two x chromosomes. Culturally, young women are almost a zero. Almost all of the novels, movies, magazines, politicians, websites, tv shows, etc. that appeal to them are complete trash.
Mphopkins99
December 1, 2015 @ 6:22 am
Its a tough choice, but I’d go with Whitey Morgan barely over James McMurphy. Isbell will also be in my top 10 this year. I keep trying to fall in love with Traveller, but for whatever reason, I just don’t care for it as well as some of the others on this list.
John
December 1, 2015 @ 6:46 am
I think Love story was a great choice here. The artistry and creativity that Yelawolf shows in this record is one of the most unique things to come out of the hip-hop/country genre in a long time. Great choice!
Donny
December 1, 2015 @ 7:37 am
Lol Yelawolf on here instead of Kacey Musgraves. That made me laugh. No George Strait or Alan Jackson? Absolute horseshit
Trigger
December 1, 2015 @ 9:54 am
I love Alan Jackson and George Strait, but saying either released the most creatively-groundbreaking and impactful album in 2015 is cheering for laundry.
Derek E. Sullivan
December 1, 2015 @ 10:57 am
I feel the need to bring up “Start Here” by Maddie and Tae. I would have never listened to it if not for this site, but damn it’s good. Well-written, funny, poignant and the two girls had a role in every song. I still listened to it most days. Maybe the debut isn’t good enough to make the list, but I thought the two girls deserved a shout out in the comments for a great, great record.
Trigger
December 1, 2015 @ 11:10 am
That album may find its way onto the Essentials list. I don’t think it’s a true Album of the Year candidate, but that’s a pretty exclusive crowd. But it’s a fine, worthy effort.
Jeff Arthur
December 1, 2015 @ 11:31 am
McMurty’s complicated game is his best work to date & that’s saying a lot.The man seems to be consistent with working thinking mans music .
It’s shamefull the comment was made that he has been in the game too long ( to paraphrase here) the album is wall to wall solid
Trigger
December 1, 2015 @ 11:37 am
The comment about McMurtry being a known quantity was not meant as a dig at him. It was meant to refute the idea that someone established can’t be considered the “best” simply because he’s not new. We live in such a “here and now” world, some believe you have to be new to be relevant. I think James McMurtry proved otherwise.
F Minor to C
December 1, 2015 @ 11:34 am
Cass seems woefully under-represented in the comments section but it gets my vote. It’s a masterpiece in every way. 10 years from today it’ll hold up just as well.
Hold My Beer comes in #2.
scott
December 1, 2015 @ 12:00 pm
Agreed about Cass. Methinks it’s some anti-Henley sentiment, some folks just can’t admit to it being good, really good. Just my take on it, your mileage may vary…
PETE MARSHALL
December 1, 2015 @ 3:20 pm
good cd’s
Chris Stapleton “Traveler”
Aaron Watson “The Look”
Alabama “Southern Drawl”
Don Henley “Cass Country”
Brandon
December 1, 2015 @ 5:59 pm
Aaron Watson is The Underdog, that look is just a song on it.
PETE MARSHALL
December 1, 2015 @ 7:28 pm
thank you. My mind went blank for a moment.